Corporate Support

TRADING STANDARDS

What We Do - Consumer Safety

Consumer Goods

The safety of most consumer goods is governed by the Consumer Protection Act 1987. It is a criminal offence to contravene safety regulations made under the Act.

Business suppliers must ensure that any items they supply are safe. It is worth noting that the term ‘supply’ has a very wide definition and includes hiring, lending or giving away as a prize.

Some second-hand goods are also covered unless they are antiques or are sold specifically for repair or reconditioning.

There are specific regulations for a number of products including:

• Bicycles

• Children’s Hood Cords

• Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging for Supply)

• Cosmetic products

• Electrical equipment

• Fireworks

• Nightwear

• Toys

• Upholstered Furniture and Furnishings

 
Soft toy flammability testing

If you believe you have bought unsafe goods, or if you would like advice to enable you to comply with consumer safety legislation, contact your local Trading Standards Service. 

Underage Sales 

The Trading Standards Service enforces a number of pieces of legislation designed to protect young people. These concern the following subjects:

• Sale of tobacco products to under 16’s

• Sale of butane lighter refills to under 16’s

• Classification of video recordings

• Solvent abuse

• Sale of Fireworks to under 18’s

If you have a complaint regarding sales to underage young people or are a business involved in the sale of such products and would like more information on the legal requirements, please contact your local Trading Standards Service.

If you require further advice or assistance please contact the Trading Standards Service.